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3-MCPD test kit for edible oil

Background

Glycidol (GE) and Chloropropanols like 3-MCPD, are foodborne contaminants that can be formed during the processing of various foodstuffs. 3-MCPD is formed from glycerol or acylglycerols and chloride ions in heat-processed foodstuffs that contain fat with low water activity. 3-MCPD occurs, not only in its free form, but also as esters with higher fatty acids (so-called bound 3-MCPD). In refined fats and oils, the highest concentrations are detected in palm oil and palm oil-based fats. The presence of 3-MCPD and other chloropropanols in food products increases the risk of testicular and renal toxicity. Its metabolites also result in carcinogenic lesions, as seen in rodent models. 3-MCPD exhibits mutagenic activity in vitro. The above-mentioned facts have led various regulatory agencies to set limits on the content of 3-MCPD and Glycidol in processed food and edible oils.

For detection of 3-MCPD and GE in refined cooking oil products, the confirmatory AOCS standard method may cost up to EUR 300 (certified laboratory) per sample. In addition, each test may take more than 2 working days on average to accomplish.

This rapid assay kit enables detection of combined values of 3-MCPD and GE in edible oil, which is the major source of 3-MCPD fatty acid esters in food. The rapid test kit requires only 1.5 hours per test batch from sample preparation to result. This translates to a turnaround time of < 20 minutes per sample. All tests with positive signals are recommended to undergo a further confirmatory AOCS standard method to confirm the exact level of 3-MCPD and GE.